Granby Street Pedestrian Upgrade Nears Completion with Resurfacing

The renovation of a bustling street in Leicester is approaching its final stages, with resurfacing operations scheduled to commence. This initiative by Leicester City Council involves expanding pedestrian areas and widening footpaths along a section of Granby Street. The primary road surface of Granby Street is slated for resurfacing starting Sunday, specifically the segment between its intersection with Dover Street and the junction of Rutland Street/Belvoir Street. Consequently, this section will be inaccessible to all vehicles for a duration of up to seven days, as confirmed by the city council. Previously existing pay and display parking spaces on the street, which have been out of service for over three years, have been converted into pedestrian walkways and outdoor dining zones for cafes. The authority further noted that new parking bays have been established on the adjacent Chatham Street, York Street, and Calais Street to compensate for those removed from Granby Street. Additionally, the exterior of the Grade II-listed Grand Hotel on Granby Street, along with its historical shopfronts, is undergoing restoration as part of a project financed by Historic England. The council stated that all enhancements to the highway infrastructure are anticipated to conclude by the close of November. Geoff Whittle, who serves as the assistant city mayor for environment and transport, characterized Granby Street as “an important gateway into the city centre.” He further commented, “These ongoing improvements will help create a more attractive route for walkers, wheelers and cyclists with more space for shoppers and cafe-style seating.” A concluding stage of the project, provisionally scheduled for early next year, involves the permanent closure of the intersection of Dover Street and Granby Street to motorized traffic. The city council indicated that a new turning area would be established on Dover Street to guarantee continued vehicle access to adjacent businesses and points of interest, such as The Little Theatre.